Do you want to become an architect but don’t know where to start? This blog post will provide you with all the information you need to get started in your career as an architect in the USA.
We’ll discuss the necessary steps and outline the types of architecture careers available to you.
So, whether you’re a student looking for your first job or an experienced professional looking for a change, keep reading!
What is an Architect’s job?
The first step to becoming an architect is understanding what the job entails. Architects are responsible for designing, planning, and constructing buildings and other structures. This can include everything from residential homes to skyscrapers and everything in between.
To succeed in this career, you must have a strong understanding of the artistic and technical aspects of design. You must be able to visualize your designs and then turn them into detailed plans that contractors and other professionals can follow.
There is a lot of responsibility that comes with being an architect. You will be responsible for ensuring that your designs are safe and meet all the necessary building codes and regulations.
Let’s look at the job responsibilities of an architect in detail.
What are the Job Responsibilities of an Architect?
An architect’s job is more than just creating plans. Here is an overview of what they have to do:
- Create detailed plans and drawings of buildings
- Ensure that their designs meet all the necessary building codes and regulations
- Supervise the construction of their buildings
- Inspect completed buildings to make sure they match the original design
- Provide consulting services to clients
- Maintain a portfolio of their work
Moreover, architects closely work with several engineering and construction departments like plumbing, electrical, structural, drainage, and others.
Their duties also include:
- Understanding the scope of a project
- Preparing Bill Of Quantities (BOQ)
- Assisting quantity surveyors
- Updating drawings as per revisions
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What are the different types of Architecture Careers?
Many types of architecture careers are available to you in the USA. The most common are:
- Architectural Designer
- Project Architect
- Senior Architect
- Associate Architect
- Principal Architect
- Landscape Architect
- Interior Designer
In terms of career path, you may get employed at an architectural firm or start one of your own. If you don’t feel like building an office and meeting people, you may start a freelance career in this industry and serve clients worldwide.
What is the Pathway to becoming an Architect?
The education needed for this profession is extensive; earning a Bachelor of Science in Landscape Design will put you on the right track.
- Get A Bachelor’s Degree
The requirements may vary from one state to another. Still, most states will require you to earn a five-year Bachelor of Architecture degree through a program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB).
Typical courses in an accredited architect bachelor’s program include project management, building systems, and environmental planning and impact analysis.
Robert R. Taylor (June 8,1868-December 13, 1942), 1st black architect trained student in the US to graduate from MIT.
- Participate In An Internship Program
Almost every state requires architecture aspirants to complete an internship program at top companies to be eligible for a license. Some of these internship programs may last up to three years and provide valuable experience that prepares individuals for a career as an architect.
Many states provide internship opportunities through the Intern Development Program offered by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards and the American Institute of Architects.
These internships consist of roughly 5,600 hours of work experience in architectural areas, including practice management, design, project management, and pre-design.
- Apply For An Architect Position
You can apply for work once you have become licensed after passing the ARE. As explained earlier, it’s up to you how you wish to move forward from here.
You may choose to work for someone else or start your own practice.
Norma Merrick Sklarek (April 15,1926- February 6,2012), a honorable pioneer was the 1st woman architect. Her notable projects includes terminal one at the Los Angeles International Airport and the Pacific Design Center.
- Become Licensed
All architects must obtain a license after passing the Architect Registration Examination to start practicing in their state. Most states require a bachelor’s degree and the completion of an internship to be eligible to take the exam.
This exam is offered through the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards and is a seven-part pass-or-fail exam.
- Earn Professional Certifications (Optional)
Besides the ARE, you may choose to complete additional certifications offered by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards.
But remember, this is an optional step to help you stand out among candidates and be more employable.
Julian Abele (April 30,1881- April 23,1950), 1st black graduate of architecture at the University of Pennsylvania in 1902. His notable work was the West Campus of Duke University
- Earn A Master’s Degree (Optional)
Some architects choose to further their careers by obtaining a graduate degree in an architecture-related field. There are several Master of Architecture programs available that are accredited by the NAAB.
Pursuing a master’s degree is an excellent choice for those willing to take up teaching or research roles. Or this can also help people wishing to switch to an architecture-related role if they have any other related degree.
How Much Do Architects Earn?
Architects in the United States typically earn around 120,000 USD per year. Salaries range from 63,700 USD (lowest) to 183,000 USD (highest).
This is the average yearly salary, including benefits like housing, transport, medical, and others.
But, what do the salaries depend on?
Well, there are a lot of factors that affect the employability and salary of an architect. Some of them are education, certifications, additional skills, years of experience, companies you worked with, and the state where you work.
If you wish to earn more, it will probably be wise to earn additional certifications and a master’s degree. You may also want to learn about the top paying companies and states in the United States.
Plus, try learning as much architecture-related software as possible because a lot of work is now digital, and companies always need tech-savvy people.
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What is the Job Outlook of a Landscape Architect?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the employment of architects is projected to grow 3 percent from 2021 to 2031. This percentage is slower than the average for all occupations, but at least it is in the positive direction.
One reason for the slow-down from the prior years is that the computer-aided design tools available make modern architects more efficient and productive, so fewer people are necessary to get the work done.
However, despite limited employment growth, there is a projection of about 9,100 job openings for architects over the next ten years. Most of those openings will result from the need to replace workers who switch to a different industry, move up the career ladder, or retire from their positions.
So, these are some of the things you should know before planning a career in architecture.
Remember, every industry is filled with opportunities if you put in the work!
                                 Black Architects Organizations:
- National Organizations of Minority Architects  https://www.noma.net/
- Black Architects & Interior Designers Association https://www.baida.ca/
- Society of Black Architects https://www.facebook.com/groups/5840238732/
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